If you’re building a new home or buying property in Utah, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is how your home will handle wastewater. For most homeowners, the choice comes down to two options: a private septic system or a municipal sewer connection.

Both options get the job done, but they work very differently—and each has its own advantages and drawbacks. At Regal Service Team, we’ve worked with septic systems across Utah for decades, and we know how important it is to make the right choice for your property, your budget, and your lifestyle.

In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of septic systems vs. sewer connections, so you can make an informed decision about which solution is right for your home.

How Each System Works

Septic System
A septic system is a private, on-site wastewater treatment system. Wastewater from your home flows into a buried septic tank, where solids settle and are broken down by bacteria. The liquid effluent then flows to a drainfield, where it’s naturally filtered by soil.

Sewer Connection
With a municipal sewer system, wastewater flows from your home into underground pipes that connect to a community-wide treatment facility. The facility processes wastewater for safe discharge or reuse.

Related Reading: Septic Systems and Onsite Wastewater Treatment in Utah.

Pros of Septic Systems

1. Independence
   You’re not tied to a municipal system. This makes septic systems ideal for rural areas where sewer access isn’t available.
2. Lower Monthly Costs
   Once installed, septic systems don’t come with a monthly utility bill.
3. Eco-Friendly Filtration
   Septic systems use natural soil filtration to treat wastewater, reducing reliance on large treatment plants.
4. Control Over Maintenance
   Homeowners manage pumping and care schedules rather than depending on city services.

Cons of Septic Systems

1. Upfront Installation Cost
   Installing a septic system can cost more initially, especially if soil conditions require special designs.
2. Maintenance Responsibility
   Regular pumping and inspections are the homeowner’s responsibility.
3. Limited Lifespan
   Drainfields eventually wear out (usually 20–40 years) and may need replacement.
4. Land Use Limitations
   You can’t build or pave over your drainfield, which limits landscaping options.

Pros of Sewer Connections

1. Low Maintenance
   With municipal sewer, you don’t need to schedule pumping or inspections.
2. Unlimited Capacity
   Municipal systems can handle higher wastewater volumes without overloading.
3. Space Saving
   No need for a drainfield, which leaves more usable yard space.
4. Predictable Costs
   Monthly bills are consistent and easy to budget for.

Cons of Sewer Connections

1. Monthly Fees
   Sewer bills are ongoing costs that can add up significantly over time.
2. Limited Availability
   Rural and mountain communities in Utah often don’t have sewer access.
3. Connection Costs
   If sewer lines don’t already reach your property, extending them can be very expensive.
4. Lack of Control
   Homeowners rely on the city or county for maintenance and repairs.

Cost Comparison: Septic vs. Sewer

• Septic Installation: $7,000–$20,000 depending on design, soil, and property size.
• Septic Maintenance: Pumping every 3–5 years ($300–$600 per visit).
• Sewer Connection Fees: $1,500–$5,000 on average, but can be much higher if lines need to be extended.
• Sewer Bills: Typically $30–$70 per month.

Over decades, septic systems often cost less in total—but only if they’re properly maintained.

Environmental Considerations

• Septic Systems: Naturally recycle wastewater on-site, but can pollute groundwater if neglected.
• Sewer Systems: Treat wastewater on a large scale, but require significant infrastructure and energy.

Both systems can be environmentally friendly when properly managed.

Which Is Right for Utah Homeowners?

Your choice depends on:

• Location: Rural areas almost always require septic.
• Budget: Upfront vs. long-term costs may influence your decision.
• Lifestyle: If you want independence, septic is ideal. If you prefer convenience, sewer may be better.

At Regal Service Team, we guide homeowners through this decision with expert advice tailored to their property and goals.

A Utah Homeowner’s Choice

A homeowner in Wasatch County had the option of paying to extend sewer lines to their property—at a cost of over $40,000—or installing a septic system. They chose septic, and with regular maintenance from Regal, their system has worked flawlessly for years at a fraction of the cost.

Both Work, but One May Work Better for You

Septic systems and sewer connections both safely manage wastewater—but they fit different situations. By weighing the pros and cons, understanding the costs, and considering your property’s location, you can make the choice that best protects your home and your budget.

At Regal Service Team, we specialize in septic systems for Utah homeowners who want independence, reliability, and expert support.

Because the right wastewater solution isn’t just about today—it’s about decades of safe, dependable living.